This bill amends Section 135C.40 of the Iowa Code to enhance the review process conducted by the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) regarding deficient practices identified in nursing facilities. Specifically, it mandates that DIAL establish and maintain a process to review each deficient practice for which a citation may be issued, allowing representatives from the nursing facilities to participate in the review. This participation enables them to provide context or evidence before DIAL issues a final finding of immediate jeopardy or substandard quality of care.

The bill also clarifies that the review process aims to ensure consistent and accurate application of federal and state inspection protocols and regulatory standards. It modifies the existing law by replacing the previous language that limited the facility's representatives' involvement to only after a citation was issued, thereby allowing for a more proactive approach in addressing potential deficiencies before final determinations are made.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135C.40